Zelensky claims 155 Chinese fighting for Russia in Ukraine

Allegations of Chinese Involvement in Ukraine Conflict
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a startling claim, stating that at least 155 Chinese citizens are actively participating in the conflict on Russia’s side. This assertion follows the recent capture of two Chinese combatants by Ukrainian forces, marking the first time Kyiv has officially accused China of providing manpower to Russia.
Zelensky emphasized the gravity of the situation in a press briefing, revealing that his government has collected data including names and passport details of these individuals. He accused Russia of recruiting Chinese nationals through social media platforms, alleging that the recruits are trained in Moscow, provided with migration documents, and compensated for their participation.
China’s Response
The Chinese government swiftly responded to these allegations. A spokesperson from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Lin Jian, urged for a responsible and accurate understanding of China’s role, denying any involvement in the crisis. Lin stressed that China advocates for a peaceful resolution and insisted that any Chinese nationals fighting are doing so in a private capacity, without state endorsement.
Lin reiterated China’s policy that discourages its citizens from engaging in armed conflicts abroad. Despite these statements, the presence of Chinese fighters in Ukraine as claimed by Zelensky paints a different picture, suggesting a possible covert involvement by China in the conflict.
Details from the Battlefield
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Earlier in the week, Zelensky disclosed that Ukrainian forces had encountered six Chinese soldiers in the Donetsk region, capturing two. The captured soldiers were featured in a video released on social media, where they shared their backgrounds and the circumstances of their capture. One captured soldier admitted it was his first combat experience, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Zelensky has described the involvement of Chinese nationals as a significant escalation, accusing Moscow of attempting to prolong the conflict through such measures. He has called for a global response, particularly from the United States, to address this development.
International Reactions and Broader Implications
The United States has expressed concern over these reports, which further complicate the already tense relations between China, Russia, and the Western allies. Zelensky has previously criticized China’s purported neutrality, pointing out inconsistencies such as the alleged supply of military components to Russia.
China has faced accusations from the U.S. of assisting Russia’s military efforts, including the provision of munitions and dual-use technology. Despite these allegations, China maintains that its trade with Russia does not include lethal arms and that it handles dual-use exports responsibly.
The revelation of Chinese fighters in Ukraine follows another significant incident where Ukrainian forces captured two injured North Korean soldiers in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, suggesting a pattern of foreign fighters aiding Russia in the conflict.
This development raises serious questions about the extent of international involvement in the Ukraine conflict and the role of major global players like China in these dynamics.
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